Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Bang Bang Shrimp, where crispy meets creamy with a punch of flavor! This dish is a favorite for seafood lovers and is perfect as an appetizer or a main course. Imagine tender, succulent shrimp cloaked in a golden, crispy coating, then tossed in a luscious, spicy sauce that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Serve them up at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for 30 minutes. This step infuses the shrimp with moisture and adds a lovely tenderness.
- While the shrimp soak, prepare the coating. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). You want it hot enough to achieve that perfect crispy finish!
- Once the shrimp have finished soaking, remove them from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated for that satisfying crunch.
- Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are a beautiful golden brown.
- While the shrimp are frying, prepare the sauce by mixing together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the shrimp are perfectly fried, toss them in the sauce until they are well coated with that delicious flavor.
- Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch of flair!
Notes or Tips
For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding a squeeze of lime to your sauce for a fresh zing. If you prefer less heat, simply adjust the amount of sriracha according to your taste. These delicious shrimp are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just know that the coating may lose some of its crispiness if reheated!
Cooking Techniques
Frying can be intimidating, but with a few simple techniques, you’ll be a pro in no time! Make sure the oil is at the right temperature by using a kitchen thermometer; if it’s too cool, your shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they may burn before cooking through. Also, frying in small batches helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even cooking.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating in buttermilk.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
These shrimp pair wonderfully with a bed of rice, a fresh side salad, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter meal!
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is not just a recipe; it’s a delicious experience that brings joy to your kitchen and your table. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to savor every crispy, creamy bite!